Newborn Ear Molding
Between 15%-20% of all newborns are born with some sort of ear deformity. Some of these can correct themselves over time, but most will require cosmetic reshaping to appear normal. During the early days after birth, non-invasive newborn ear molding can be performed to reshape many ear deformities. Dr. Erez Dayan offers this service at Avance Plastic Surgery Institute in Reno/Tahoe, NV.
Newborn ear molding is possible without surgery in the first days after birth when high levels of estrogen make the ear cartilage especially pliable. During this time, Dr. Dayan can reshape the existing ear cartilage and place a form over it to hold it until the shape becomes solid. This is a painless procedure and does not interfere with sleeping, hearing or breastfeeding.
This pediatric facial plastic surgery procedure is only possible when sufficient ear cartilage is present. If moderate to severe deformities require extensive molding or grafting, ear surgery, or otoplasty, is needed.
Infant Ear Reconstruction
Infant ear reconstruction is sometimes necessary if an ear deformity leaves the ear severely misshapen or missing part of the structure. This can be due to problems with ear development before birth or the infant lying on its head in a particular way within the mother’s womb. Regardless of the cause, infant ear reconstruction is usually undertaken between ages six and eight.
Shortly after birth, you should connect with an audiologist to perform testing on the child’s hearing to determine if any problems exist. Some hearing difficulties occasionally accompany ear deformities. Dr. Dayan can consult with your audiologist and other members of the medical team along the way. He is pleased to work with other medical professionals to help your child live their best life.
When infant ear reconstruction is necessary, Dr. Dayan can use a prosthetic or a cartilage graft taken from the child’s rib to form the necessary structure and shape of the ear. He will explain the options for ear reconstruction surgery or ear molding in a confidential consultation at Avance Plastic Surgery Institute. Contact our Reno/Tahoe office, and speak to a team member today for more information or to schedule a consultation.